Medical Eye Exams

What is a Medical Exam?

We use lights, magnifiers and special instruments to get a clear view of the structures of the back of the eye, including all the blood vessels in the retina. Vascular conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension, can be detected and monitored by noting changes in the appearance of these blood vessels. Conditions like diabetes, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts are important to monitor as your eye doctor recommends.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye condition that causes damage to the optic nerve, which is vital for good vision. It is usually caused by abnormally high pressure in your eye. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness for people over the age of 60, although it can occur at any age.

Many forms of glaucoma have no warning signs as the loss of vision is gradual, and vision loss from glaucoma can’t be recovered. It is important to have regular, yearly eye exams so it can be caught early and the progression of vision loss can be stopped or slowed.

We manage glaucoma treatment in our office by monitoring eye pressure, running visual field testing, taking OCT scans of your optic nerve, and by dilating regularly. Eye drops are prescribed when necessary, and it is important to take them as prescribed- if you have any concerns with them- contact us as soon as possible.

Diabetes and Diabetic Retinopathy

If you struggle with diabetes, then you understand how the symptoms can impact multiple aspects of your life and overall health. Careful management of your diabetes is the best way to prevent vision loss.

Diabetic Retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes. It’s caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina, or the tissue at the back of the eye. The condition can develop in anyone who has type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The longer you have diabetes and the less controlled your blood sugar is, the more likely you are to develop this eye complication.

Diabetic retinopathy may not show symptoms in the early stages. As it progresses, you might experience blurry vision, fluctuating levels of vision, floaters, or vision loss. In the long term, the growth of abnormal blood vessels can lead to retinal detachments, glaucoma, and blindness. If you have diabetes, see your eye doctor for a yearly eye exam with dilation — even if your vision seems fine.

Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Macular Degeneration is a common eye disorder that happens as the macula deteriorates. It’s the number one cause of vision loss, and affects central vision. Like other conditions, you may not experience symptoms right away- and it will progress faster in some than others. There is currently no cure, but it can be slowed with treatment. It is important to catch it early with annual eye exams.

There are two types of AMD, dry and wet. Dry is more common than wet, and typically progresses slowly over several years.

There is currently no cure for AMD, but we will refer you to get injections to slow the progress or to a low-vision rehabilitation specialist.